N10S2PicRenewed calls have been made for the control of sulky racing in Waterford.
Sulky racing is an ongoing problem in a number of areas in Waterford, including the Outer Ring Road in the city.
At the October plenary meeting of Waterford City & County Council, Cllr John Hearne (SF) called for by-laws to be introduced to tackle the issue as soon as possible.
“About a year and a half ago we passed a motion looking for by-laws in relation to sulkies,” he said.
He highlighted successful efforts which have been made in both Tipperary and Kilkenny in tackling the controversial issue.
He said local Gardaí are afraid that somebody will be seriously injured as a result of the activity.
Director of Services Fergus Galvin said horse control by-laws are already in place in the city and said these could be used to deal with this issue.
He said he would speak to Gardaí on the matter.
In January 2016, Kilkenny became the first city and county to officially outlaw sulky racing on public roads, following the passing of a new set of by-laws.
This followed a period of public consultation, after which the council approved a new set of by-laws plus a number of amendments to existing regulations.
Sulky racing is banned on Kilkenny’s roads and any horse on a public road must have a licence and must be fitted with a bridle.
Additionally, the animal cannot graze in a public place without written consent from Kilkenny County Council.